Jarrad Branthwaite is asking Everton to match Manchester United’s offer of £160,000 per week.
This summer, Everton rejected two bids from United for the 22-year-old center back. United’s latest offer was £50 million, but Everton valued Branthwaite at £70 million, a figure they could not meet.
Branthwaite, who impressed last season under Sean Dyche, is seen as a key player for both club and country. Everton is keen to extend his contract, which currently has three years left and pays over £70,000 a week.
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However, if Everton cannot come close to United’s offer, Branthwaite is reportedly prepared to turn down any further contract proposals, according to the Mirror.
This situation comes at a critical time for Everton, as their recent negotiations with the Friedkin Group fell through, delaying owner Farhad Moshiri’s two-year effort to sell the club. Despite this setback, Everton remains hopeful that new buyers will emerge, according to the Daily Star.
Although Manchester United had targeted Branthwaite this summer, the team reportedly reconsidered after sports director Dan Ashworth’s recent discussions with Everton’s Kevin Thelwell. Everton reiterated their desire to stick with their £70 million valuation.